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Instacart launches AI grocery assistant Clementine in Canada, U.S.

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Instacart website photo
Instacart website photo

Instacart has launched an artificial intelligence-powered grocery shopping assistant that can turn conversations, recipes and grocery lists into personalized shopping carts for customers in Canada and the United States.

The company introduced Clementine on Wednesday as part of its broader AI strategy, while also announcing the expansion of its enterprise Cart Assistant to additional grocery retailers.

Clementine is designed to use customers’ preferences, previous shopping behaviour and real-time store inventory to help with meal planning, grocery lists, reordering and finding deals. Instacart said the tool is available to most Canadian and U.S. customers through its app and website.

Chris Rogers
Chris Rogers
John Adams
John Adams

“Every night, millions of families ask the same question: ‘What’s for dinner?’ Not knowing the answer, let alone what to shop for, is one of the most universal human experiences, and a problem Instacart is built to solve,” said Chris Rogers, CEO of Instacart. “We’ve spent nearly 15 years learning how families shop and eat, and Clementine puts that knowledge to work. It learns from the preferences you share and the way you’ve shopped on Instacart. It can help you stay on budget and surface what’s actually in stock at your chosen store, handling enough of the weekly planning that the mental load actually feels lighter.”

The company said Clementine’s technology is supported by data from more than 1.6 billion lifetime orders, a catalogue of more than two billion items and more than 10 million daily inventory signals from nearly 100,000 stores across more than 2,200 retail banners in North America.

The assistant can generate personalized recipes or surface options from publishers, apply household preferences such as gluten-free, vegetarian, nut-free or organic choices, identify promotions and lower-cost alternatives, and assemble repeat orders based on previous purchases.

Customers can also use Clementine for occasion-based shopping, such as preparing food for a football watch party, or upload a photo of a handwritten grocery list or a screenshot of a digital list.

Instacart website photo
Instacart website photo

Instacart said early results show customers initially using Clementine for simpler tasks such as restocking before moving to more complex uses such as recipe discovery. Orders placed with Clementine have more items on average than Instacart’s typical basket and exceed the company’s stated average basket size of US$115.

“Grocery shopping is one of the most routine things people do, and also one of the most personal,” said John Adams, vice-president and head of product at Instacart. “What we built with Clementine is a system that understands both of those things – not just what you need, but how you eat, what you love, and what’s on the shelves at your store right now. Whatever you’re craving or planning for, Clementine can get you there. The more you use it, the more it feels like a natural part of how your household shops, becoming something you reach for week after week.”

The company is also expanding Cart Assistant, its white-label AI shopping tool for grocery retailers. The technology combines Instacart’s grocery data with a retailer’s catalogue and customer data and can be customized to include a retailer’s branding, loyalty integration and recipe content.

Food Bazaar, Heritage Grocers Group and Woodman’s are now using Cart Assistant, while ALDI U.S., Harmon’s, The Save Mart Companies and Stew Leonard’s are among the retailers expected to follow.

Instacart website photo
Instacart website photo

Instacart said Cart Assistant allows grocery retailers to offer AI-assisted shopping directly through their own websites and apps, including capabilities such as surfacing deals and recipes and building shopping carts.

The company has also partnered with Anthropic, OpenAI and Google so grocery shopping conversations that begin through Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini or AI Mode in Google Search can be completed through Instacart, allowing users to order from their preferred retailer for delivery or pickup.

Clementine is available through the Instacart app and website. Most Canadian and U.S. customers can access it by selecting a retailer and choosing the Clementine icon on mobile or the corresponding option in the desktop navigation.

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IKEA Canada launches 50th anniversary year with storage offers, new consumer research

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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IKEA image
IKEA image

IKEA Canada is marking its 50th anniversary in the country with a series of promotional offers and new research examining how Canadians organize their homes.

The retailer says its 2026 Store & Organize Report found Canadians spend an average of 28 minutes a day looking for misplaced items at home, equivalent to about one week a year.

The research also found 30 per cent of Canadians identify the kitchen countertop as the hardest area of the home to keep free of clutter, while 21 per cent have purchased a duplicate item because they could not find the original.

Phone chargers account for about five minutes of daily searching, according to the report, adding up to more than 30 hours a year.

At the same time, the survey suggests Canadians are reluctant to part with many of the things they own. More than eight in 10 respondents, or 83 per cent, said they keep items purely for sentimental reasons, even when they are never used or stored out of sight.

About 27 per cent said they hold on to mementos from past relationships, with men more likely than women to retain something from an ex-partner.

Meghan Willisko
Meghan Willisko
IKEA photo
IKEA photo

“What we keep says a lot about who we are,” said Meghan Willisko, Head of Home Furnishing & Retail Design at IKEA Canada. “It was never just stuff. At IKEA, we believe everyone deserves a home that works for them, and that a little organization can go a long way toward making room for what actually matters. That’s what smart, affordable storage solutions are for.”

The research is being released as IKEA Canada begins a year-long series of events and offers marking 50 years of operations in Canada.

The retailer’s first anniversary promotion includes 50 per cent off the four-drawer STORKLINTA chest of drawers from Sept. 12 to 13, although quantities are limited and conditions apply.

Other offers include 15 per cent back in IKEA gift cards on wardrobe purchases of more than $250, running from Aug. 27 to Sept. 14, and a $1 breakfast on Sept. 12 and 13. IKEA says proceeds from the breakfast will go to Breakfast Club of Canada, while the offer also includes a $50 coupon toward a future in-store purchase of more than $199.

The offers are available exclusively to IKEA Family members, with membership free through IKEA stores or IKEA.ca.

The company says its Store & Organize product range is intended to help customers make use of existing space through storage products for areas including kitchens, closets and drawers.

IKEA photo

The IKEA Store & Organize Report 2026: Finding Meaning in the Mess is based on a global survey conducted by YouGov in April 2026 involving 31,488 participants across 31 markets, including Canada. The findings cited by IKEA are based on the Canadian sample.

IKEA Canada is part of Ingka Group, which operates 574 IKEA stores in 31 countries. In Canada, the company operates 15 stores and 13 plan and order points.

IKEA Canada says its stores attracted 33.3 million visitors last year, while its website recorded 199.9 million visitors.

The company says the anniversary offers and research are the beginning of further initiatives planned throughout the coming year as IKEA marks 50 years in Canada.

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Jersey Mike’s Subs opens first Calgary location as Redberry targets 300 Canadian stores by 2035

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Jersey Mike's photo
Jersey Mike's photo

Jersey Mike’s Subs is opening its first Calgary restaurant as Canadian franchisee Redberry Restaurants continues an expansion plan that calls for 300 locations of the sandwich chain across the country by 2035.

The new restaurant at 9631 Macleod Trail opens Wednesday, Sept. 9, adding Calgary to Jersey Mike’s Alberta footprint, which includes locations in Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Grande Prairie and Fort Saskatchewan.

A second Edmonton location and a restaurant in St. Albert are also planned to open later this year, according to Redberry.

The Calgary opening comes with a 10-day fundraising campaign for Make-A-Wish Canada running from Sept. 9 to Sept. 18. Customers who received a special fundraising coupon before the opening can make a minimum $5 contribution to Make-A-Wish Canada in exchange for a regular sub. The coupon is required to participate in the offer.

Customers without a coupon can download the Jersey Mike’s app and earn a free regular sub after their first in-app sub purchase. They can also make a donation to Make-A-Wish Canada through a donation box at the restaurant.

Ken Otto
Ken Otto
Jersey Mike's photo
Jersey Mike’s photo

“We are excited to be opening our doors in the great city of Calgary,” said Ken Otto, CEO, Redberry. “We know Calgarians are going to love our authentic sub sandwiches, sliced right in front of them and served Mike’s Way with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, oil, vinegar and spices.”

The expansion is part of Redberry’s broader Canadian growth strategy. The Mississauga, Ont.-based company operates more than 200 restaurants across Canada under the BURGER KING, Taco Bell and Jersey Mike’s Subs brands.

Jersey Mike’s has more than 3,300 locations across the United States and Canada. Redberry said its Canadian expansion plan is to reach 300 Jersey Mike’s locations by 2035.

The company’s Calgary restaurant will operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Customers can order in-store, through the Jersey Mike’s app, online or through national delivery apps. Catering orders will also be available.

Jersey Mike’s sandwiches feature meats and cheeses sliced in the restaurant and served on in-store baked bread. The chain also offers cheesesteaks prepared to order.

Jersey Mike's photo
Jersey Mike’s photo

The Calgary fundraiser builds on Jersey Mike’s existing relationship with Make-A-Wish Canada. In May, the company pledged to raise $1 million for the organization by 2030. Since 2024, Jersey Mike’s has raised more than $300,000 for Make-A-Wish Canada.

Make-A-Wish Canada grants wishes to children diagnosed with critical illnesses. The organization said it has granted more than 40,000 wishes over the past 43 years, including 1,835 last year.

Redberry was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Mississauga. The company said its growth is supported through a partnership with Uncommon Equity.

Jersey Mike’s was founded in 1956 as Mike’s Subs in Point Pleasant, N.J., and has since expanded across the United States and Canada. The company’s Canadian and U.S. operations include more than 3,300 locations.

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PetSmart launches 2026 Halloween collection for Canadian pets

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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PetSmart photo
PetSmart photo

PetSmart has launched its 2026 Halloween collection in Canada, offering seasonal costumes, toys, treats and accessories for dogs, cats, reptiles and small pets.

The Thrills & Chills collection is being offered in PetSmart stores and online as the retailer expands its seasonal merchandise ahead of Halloween.

The collection includes traditional Halloween costumes such as pumpkins, bats, devils, angels, skeletons, dragons and dinosaurs, as well as novelty options including lobster, princess, cowboy, banana, Highland cow and hot dog costumes.

“Every pet has a personality all their own, and Halloween is the perfect time for pet parents to let it shine,” said Charndeep Grewal, vice president of merchandising at PetSmart Canada. “We’re seeing more families include their pets in every part of the celebration, whether that means dressing up together, capturing memorable photos or treating four-legged visitors at the door. Our 2026 Halloween collection makes it easy for pet parents to celebrate in ways that feel just as fun and unique as their pets.”

The assortment also includes costumes and seasonal products for smaller animals and reptiles, including pumpkin, spider, banana, Highland cow and hot dog designs.

Beyond apparel, the retailer is offering Halloween-themed treats and toys. Products include ghost and Halloween treats for dogs, seasonal treats for small pets and toys such as vampire teeth, cactus, horseshoe and skull designs.

Charndeep Grewal
Charndeep Grewal
PetSmart photo

The collection also includes Halloween-themed Chance & Friends plush toys, with proceeds from those products supporting pets in need, according to PetSmart.

PetSmart is also promoting a selection of toys, treats, apparel and accessories priced below $15. Items include pumpkin-inspired dog cookies, plush pumpkin, werewolf and bat toys, cat toys and festive dog bandanas.

The retailer’s grooming salons are also offering a Halloween-themed package that includes a take-home plush toy, pumpkin spice latte spritz and candy corn bandana.

PetSmart said the collection is available through its stores and website.

The retailer operates more than 160 stores across Canada and also offers online and app-based shopping, including autoship, same-day delivery and in-store pickup.

PetSmart’s services include professional grooming, pet training, Doggie Day Camp and PetsHotel overnight boarding at many locations. Its PetSmart Treats Rewards program offers personalized offers and points that can be used toward future savings.

The company said PetSmart Charities of Canada has helped more than 400,000 pets find homes through in-store adoption programs.

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Daily Synopsis: September 9, 2026

By
Retail Insider
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Welcome to the Daily Synopsis by Retail Insider. We hope you enjoy the 12 articles we published covering key developments in Canadian retail.

Canadian consumer spending remains resilient despite economic pressures, with major retailers showing growth that often exceeds U.S. counterparts consumer spending resilience. Toronto Pearson Airport is enhancing its retail and dining offerings with over 30 new openings to boost the traveller experience and regional appeal Toronto Pearson’s retail expansion. Luxury retail gets a boost as Brunello Cucinelli prepares to open at Fairmont Château Whistler, reflecting Oxford Properties’ investment in combining retail and hospitality Brunello Cucinelli’s new location.

Miniso is broadening its footprint with a second MINISO LAND in Canada focusing on quality and experiential retail formats Miniso’s expansion plans. H&M reinforced leadership with new appointments for North America and Canada, emphasizing strategic growth H&,M leadership changes. Additionally, IKEA Canada is set to open its first compact store in London, Ontario, showcasing a shift to smaller, convenient retail formats IKEA Canada compact store launch.

🗞️ The Day’s Retail Insider Article List

🌐 Canadian Retail News From Around the Web

H&M names Aneta Pokucinska North America managing director, Claudia Fetta Canada GM

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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H&M at CF Toronto Eaton Centre. Photo: PETROFF PARTNERSHIP ARCHITECTS

Fashion retailer H&M is reshuffling its North American leadership, appointing Aneta Pokucinska as managing director of North America and general manager of the U.S., while naming Claudia Fetta as general manager of Canada.

The appointments are effective immediately and put two long-time H&M executives in senior roles overseeing the retailer’s operations across the region.

Pokucinska has been with H&M for more than 20 years and has experience in retail operations, commercial strategy and business transformation. She has led teams across multiple markets and has served as managing director for North America since July 2026.

Aneta Pokucinska
Aneta Pokucinska
Claudia Fetta
Claudia Fetta

Before that, Pokucinska was regional manager for H&M’s business across the Americas, North East Asia and East Asia. She has also held global leadership positions, including global head of merchandising and head of business transformation.

In her expanded role, Pokucinska will focus on market performance, customer experience and the continued development of H&M’s business in the U.S. and Canada.

She will also join H&M’s Executive Management Team and report directly to H&M Group CEO Daniel Ervér.

“I’m honored to take on these expanded responsibilities and help shape the future of H&M across North America. Our success is driven by our customers and our teams, and our ability to continuously evolve. Together, we will strengthen our market position, elevate the customer experience, and deliver growth across both the U.S. and Canada,” Pokucinska said.

Fetta’s appointment as general manager of Canada is also effective Sept. 8.

H&M at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Image: Dustin Fuhs)

She brings more than 20 years of retail leadership experience across North America and has held positions in commercial management, operations, visual merchandising and market leadership.

Fetta joined H&M in 2005 and has led teams in Canada and the United States. Most recently, she served as sales market manager for North USA & Canada.

H&M said her experience in commercial strategy, market development and customer experience has supported the company’s growth and operations across the region.

As general manager, Fetta will be responsible for advancing H&M Canada’s growth, strengthening market performance and supporting its teams as the company’s business model evolves in response to changing customer expectations.

She will report directly to Pokucinska in her role as managing director of North America.

“I am honored to take on the role of General Manager for Canada at such an exciting time for the business. Having spent nearly two decades serving customers and leading teams across Canada and North America, I have seen firsthand the incredible passion, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit that define our organization. I look forward to building on that strong foundation with our teams as we continue to strengthen our position in the market and create lasting value for our customers, partners, and colleagues across Canada,” Fetta said.

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RONA invests $40,000 in skilled trades training, launches contractor job initiative

By
Mario Toneguzzi
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Skilled Trades College photo
Skilled Trades College photo

RONA Inc. is renewing its partnership with Skilled Trades College of Canada for a second year, investing $40,000 in bursaries while launching a new initiative aimed at connecting graduates with contractors seeking qualified workers.

The home improvement retailer said Wednesday the RONA Future Trades Bursary program is intended to help reduce financial barriers to specialized training. The new workforce initiative will extend the partnership beyond financial assistance by creating connections between graduates and contractors looking to hire.

RONA said the program is intended to help students move from training into employment while addressing labour needs in the construction and skilled trades sectors.

“At RONA, we believe that supporting the next generation goes beyond simply funding training. Indeed, we must also create opportunities for emerging talent to put their skills into practice and build their professional future. By investing in access to training and connecting graduates with contractors, we are helping to build a stronger ecosystem for the skilled trades industry as a whole,” said Jamal Hamad, senior vice-president, professional services at RONA Inc.

Jamal Hamad
Jamal Hamad
Mike Di Donato
Mike Di Donato

Mike Di Donato, chief operating officer at Skilled Trades College, said the partnership is designed to support students through both training and their transition into the workforce.

“According to the government of Ontario’s projections, by the year 2034, one in six job openings in the province will be in skilled trades. For young people thinking about their future, this is a field full of opportunities. By providing financial assistance and connecting students to professionals, our partnership with RONA supports the entire journey from training to employment,” added Di Donato.

The bursaries are being awarded to 11 students across six Skilled Trades College campuses in Ontario.

Recipients at the Vaughan campus are Robert Walilko and Matthew Rodrigues, while Michael Stephenson and Noel O’Sullivan are recipients at the Cambridge campus.

The Ajax campus recipients are Evan Tibbles and Andreas Evans-Adamecz, while Samantha Beamish received a bursary at the Oakville campus.

Franklyn Browne is the recipient at the Toronto East campus, while Leonardo Lima and Corie Gayle received bursaries at the Toronto West campus.

Skilled Trades College photo
Skilled Trades College photo
RONA store. Photo: RONA Inc.

Contractors interested in participating in the new workforce initiative can obtain information through RONA’s skilled trades workforce program.

RONA Inc., headquartered in Boucherville, Que., operates and services more than 425 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the RONA+ and RONA banners. The company says it employs 21,000 people and has supported home improvement and construction projects in Canada since 1939.

Skilled Trades College of Canada, founded in 2008, is a registered career college offering year-round, hands-on pre-apprenticeship programs in electrical, plumbing, home renovation and HVAC. Its training is offered across six campuses in the Greater Toronto Area, with expansion into the U.S. market underway.

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Apple Launches AirPods 5 with Advanced Active Noise Cancellation in Toronto

By
Lee Rivett
-

Apple is launching its latest earbuds, the AirPods 5, featuring best-in-class open-ear Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and improved sound quality. Available for pre-order starting today at a price of $179 CAD, these new audio devices will see in-store availability begin on September 18, 2026.

With a significant upgrade in ANC technology, AirPods 5 offer a noise reduction of up to 50% compared to their predecessor, AirPods 4. The new model includes a multiport acoustic architecture that enhances sound quality and provides a more natural Transparency mode, allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.

Enhanced Sound Features

The AirPods 5 are designed to deliver richer sound across various ear shapes. An updated Adaptive EQ allows for a more personalized audio experience, making the listening experience more immersive. Users can now enjoy features like Adaptive Audio, which dynamically blends ANC and Transparency modes, depending on the environment.

Improved Durability and Design

Constructed with increased water, dust, and sweat resistance, AirPods 5 are also noted for their durability. For users looking for more features, a model with a Wireless Charging Case is available for $209 CAD, which offers enhanced battery life and volume controls integrated into the stems.

Hands-Free Intelligent Features

AirPods 5 integrate with Siri AI, providing hands-free access to various features. The AI assistant comes with enhanced capabilities, allowing users to interact seamlessly while on the move, responding to commands through head gestures or voice activation. Live Translation capabilities are also included, enabling smoother communication across different languages.

Environmental Considerations

As part of Apple’s commitment to sustainability, AirPods 5 are made from 40% recycled materials and incorporate renewable energy sources in their production. This aligns with Apple’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire business by 2030.

Pre-orders for AirPods 5 are now open, with the expected in-store offering shortly following. The integration of advanced technology at an accessible price signifies Apple’s continued effort to lead in the personal audio market.

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Apple Launches Apple Watch Series 12 Featuring Advanced Health Sensing System

By
Lee Rivett
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Apple is introducing the Apple Watch Series 12, equipped with a newly developed Health Sensing System and advanced capabilities targeting health and fitness tracking. The watch features higher-frequency heart rate measurements and a readiness score, marking a significant advancement in wearable health technology.

The Apple Watch Series 12 employs the S11 chip, described as the company’s most powerful wearable chip, to provide the most accurate heart rate sensing available in a wearable device. It also aims to enhance user experience with features for sound recognition and Audio Intelligence.

Among its features, the watch can continuously monitor heart rate using optical and electrical sensors, measuring data approximately every five seconds. This allows users to gain insight into their overall health metrics, including a new readiness score that combines activity, vitals, and sleep quality. Apple states this feature aims to help individuals understand their body’s capacity for the day.

Design and Durability

The Apple Watch Series 12 comes in multiple finishes, including dark bronze and ceramic options. It includes upgrades such as Ceramic Shield 2, claimed to be tougher than any previous smartwatch glass. Pre-orders for the device commenced today, with physical availability slated for September 18.

Battery Life and Charging Enhancements

The watch boasts an improved battery life of up to 24 hours and faster charging capabilities. Notably, a 15-minute charge can provide up to 12 hours of additional use, a 50% enhancement over the previous model. This aspect aims to cater to users who require efficient recharging solutions.

With a focus on privacy, Apple ensures that the watch’s Audio Intelligence features are designed to respect user confidentiality. These functionalities enable sound recognition and provide users with alerts for important sounds, catering to various accessibility needs.

Overall, the Apple Watch Series 12 positions itself as a comprehensive health and fitness tool. Its official pricing starts at $549 CAD, making it accessible to a broad audience across various countries, including Canada.

For further information, users can visit www.apple.com/ca/store.

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Apple Introduces Apple Watch Ultra 4 with Advanced Health Features

By
Lee Rivett
-

Apple is proud to announce the launch of the Apple Watch Ultra 4. This latest model features the new Health Sensing System, which provides the most accurate heart rate monitoring in a wearable device, along with extended battery life designed for various outdoor activities.

Equipped with the advanced S11 chip, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 delivers enhanced heart rate variability measurements and offers a new readiness score to help athletes optimize their training. Users can track outdoor workouts for up to 45 hours, combined with precise GPS capabilities, making it a robust choice for fitness enthusiasts.

Among the significant improvements is the Health Sensing System, redesigned to ensure continuous and high-fidelity health monitoring. It introduces new optical and electrical heart sensors, increasing measurement frequency and providing insights that help users better understand their physiological state.

New Features and Capabilities

The readiness feature offers users a daily score based on their recent activity and sleep, advising on whether they should recover, pace themselves, or push forward. This feature continuously updates, providing real-time feedback to support an active lifestyle.

Battery life has also seen a notable enhancement, with the Apple Watch Ultra 4 now allowing up to 50 hours for typical use and up to 84 hours in Low Power Mode. This increase supports extended outdoor workout tracking, accommodating users in long-duration events.

Audio and Intelligence Features

The introduction of Audio Intelligence marks a significant upgrade. This feature allows users to stay alert to important sounds and helps maintain engagement in conversations. It includes new functionalities such as Live Rewind and Sound Recognition, designed with user privacy in mind.

Availability and Pricing

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is available for pre-order today, with in-store availability starting on September 18. It is priced starting at $1,099 CAD, with a range of new watch bands also launched simultaneously.

Apple continues its mission to integrate advanced technology with user health, ensuring that the Apple Watch remains a leader in the wearable market.

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